WASHINGTON - U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced an $8.1 million grant to upgrade the electrical system at Jos Aponte de la Torre Airport in Ceiba, Puerto Rico.

"Investing in our nation's airports promotes economic growth," U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said. "This funding will help the airport make critical repairs to aging infrastructure and will keep general aviation aircraft moving safely and efficiently through San Juan."

The grant will fund replacement of the airport's electrical system to meet current and future airport demands, bringing the system into compliance with the Puerto Rico Electrical Power Agency's electrical grid requirements.

"Upgrading airport infrastructure at Ceiba Airport will help maintain a safe and efficient air transportation system in Puerto Rico," Acting FAA Administrator Michael Huerta said.

The project is part of an ongoing effort to convert the former military airfield to civilian use. The U.S. military installed the electrical system more than 50 years ago. The facility operated as the U.S. Navy's Roosevelt Roads Naval Air Station until November 2008 when it was transferred to the Puerto Rico Ports Authority. Construction will begin in November and will take approximately one year to complete.

The Airport Improvement Program (AIP) provides $3.35 billion in annual funding for airport improvement projects that are vital to maintaining the safety, capacity, and environmental stewardship of our nation's airports. More than 3,300 airports are eligible for AIP grants benefiting commercial passengers, cargo operations, and general aviation activities throughout the nation.

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